An international team of scientists has made a major step forward in our understanding of how enzymes ‘edit’ genes, paving the way for correcting genetic diseases in patients. Researchers at the Universities of Bristol, Münster and the Lithuanian Institute of Biotechnology…
Both Pain and Itching Blocked by One Molecule
An antibody that specifically blocks the NaV1.7 voltage-gated sodium channel and suppresses pain in mice has surprisingly been found to also suppress itching in mice, even though pain and itch sensations usually follow different paths. (Source: Seok-Yong Lee and Ben Chung,…
Genes Predict Alcoholism Risk at Indiana University
Alexander Niculescu, M.D., Ph.D. (Source: Indiana University) A group of 11 genes can successfully predict whether an individual is at increased risk of alcoholism, a research team from the United States and Germany reported. “This powerful panel of just 11 genes…
Cancer Drug Structure Discovered by Chemists
A new report shows the structure of a promising anticancer compound, TIC10, differs subtly but importantly from a previously published version. (Source: Scripps Research Institute)Chemists at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) have determined the correct structure of a highly promising anticancer…
Controversial “Right to Try” Bill signed by Colorado Governor
The “Right to Try” law allows terminally ill patients to obtain experimental drugs without getting federal approval. The bill doesn’t require drug companies to provide any drug outside federal parameters, and there’s no indication pharmaceutical companies will do so. (Source: AP…
Accelerated Brain Aging Linked to Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes may be associated with brain degeneration, and some specific diabetic brain changes, according to a new multicenter study published online in the journal Radiology. The study also found that, contrary to common clinical belief, diabetes may not be…
Marijuana Use Linked to Brain Abnormalities
Young adults who used marijuana only recreationally showed significant abnormalities in two key brain regions that are important in emotion and motivation, scientists report. The study was a collaboration between Northwestern Medicine and Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School. This is the…
Green Tea Boosts Your Brain
Green tea is said to have many putative positive effects on health. Now, researchers at the University of Basel are reporting first evidence that green tea extract enhances cognitive functions, in particular the working memory. The Swiss findings suggest promising clinical…
Jamming a Protein Signal Forces Cancer Cells to Devour Themselves
Under stress from chemotherapy or radiation, some cancer cells dodge death by consuming a bit of themselves, allowing them to essentially sleep through treatment and later awaken as tougher, resistant disease. Interfering with a single cancer-promoting protein and its receptor can…